India: 29 Maoist Rebels Killed in Armed Clash

Indian police announced the death of at least 29 Maoist rebels in a battle in the central state of Chhattisgarh, just days before elections in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi aims for a third consecutive term. The police stated in a report: "After the confrontation, during the search of the area, the bodies of 29 Maoists were recovered," adding that several weapons and ammunition were also confiscated from the site. The elections are taking place in the Kanak district where the clash occurred on April 26, as part of the second phase of seven phases, while elections in the neighboring Bastar area, a Maoist stronghold, are set for next Friday.